Counselling in child and youth mental health: a field practicum report

Abstract

This report discusses my clinical experience and integration of theory and practice while completing a Master of Social Work field practicum. The practicum was completed at Youth Community Counselling (YCC) with Mental Health and Addictions Services (MHAS) in Saskatoon within the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA). The objective of my practicum placement was to gain graduate level practice experience with youth diagnosed with complex mental health issues via individual counselling and family therapy sessions. The therapeutic framework integrated into my practice with individuals and their caregivers included Trauma Informed Care (TIC), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), from a Strengths-Based Perspective (SBP). The report begins with my learning objectives, practicum activities, and my direct practice learning experiences in my placement setting. I then present information on mental health and the process of assessment and diagnosis within my practicum placement, followed by a review of the literature on the theories integrated into my practice and a reflection on the theories. Lastly, I discuss values and ethics in relation to my practicum learning experience, and conclude the report with a final summary reflection.